As the NCAA Tournament unfolds, it is easy to focus on the North Carolinas, Dukes and Pittsburghs of the world and forget about this state's only two Division I programs.
Creighton and Nebraska both passed their first-round tests in the NIT this week. The Huskers trounced Charlotte while the Jays battled back from a double-digit deficit to defeat Rhode Island.
The NIT is often called the "No one is interested tournament" or "Non-Intriguing Tournament." While it is true that the NIT is a weak sister of the NCAA event, it is still basketball and it gives young teams like the Huskers and Jays extra games.
Dana Altman's Jays have served notice that they will be a force in the Missouri Valley Conference in the next few years. It is no secret that Altman can flat-out coach and he has some young talent that will only mature and blossom in upcoming seasons.
Doc Sadler has done a solid job with the Huskers. Although center Aleks Maric will be missed next year, Sadler is slowly assembling a team that could make a jump from respectable to contender next year. Granted, the Huskers probably won't be making any Final Four reservations in 2009, but players like Cookie Miller and Ryan Anderson give NU a solid nucleus.
Sadler also has some promising newcomers who redshirted this season which only heighten the optimism.
It is OK to scoff at the NIT appearances, but remember that Altman and Sadler expect more from their respective teams. Both the Huskers and Jays have the potential to be in the "Big Dance" next year. I don't think their coaches will be happy with anything less.